through ups and downs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through ups and downs" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a situation or experience that is complex and has had both positive and negative moments. For example: "We've been through ups and downs in our relationship, but we are still going strong."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

All companies go through ups and downs.

The New York Times

"We have been through ups and downs".

The Guardian - Sport

It's been through ups and downs.

The Guardian

"Everybody goes through ups and downs.

The New York Times - Sports

Most marriages go through ups and downs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's been through ups and downs in his career".

The New York Times - Sports

"You go through ups and downs," said Trott.

The Guardian - Sport

As Obama told me, "We've seen each other through ups and downs".

The New York Times

Became part of the community, through ups and downs, the good and the bad.

The New Yorker

"We go through ups and downs like everyone else," Randolph said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

For the past three years we've bestowed the title not on the year's hottest performance, but on the big company that we think has demonstrated the ability to stay the course-through ups and downs, inflation and deflation.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "through ups and downs" to illustrate resilience and the ability to persevere during difficult times. For instance, when describing a long-term relationship or business venture.

Common error

Avoid using "through ups and downs" when describing short-term or minor inconveniences. The phrase is best suited for situations involving significant challenges and extended periods.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through ups and downs" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner in which something is experienced or endured. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and indicates experiencing a mix of positive and negative events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

19%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "through ups and downs" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe experiencing both positive and negative periods, according to Ludwig AI. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. While less frequent in highly formal settings, it effectively conveys resilience and perseverance. When using "through ups and downs", be mindful of the context and ensure it aligns with situations involving significant and prolonged challenges. Alternatives like "experiencing highs and lows" or "living through thick and thin" can offer nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experiencing highs and lows

Focuses on the alternating positive and negative experiences.

living through thick and thin

Uses a common idiom to describe unwavering commitment despite difficulties.

enduring good times and bad

Focuses on the perseverance required to withstand both positive and negative situations.

navigating challenges and triumphs

Emphasizes the active process of dealing with difficulties and achieving successes.

facing triumphs and setbacks

Emphasizes the alternating pattern of successes and failures.

riding the rollercoaster

Uses a metaphor to describe the unpredictable nature of the experience.

going through peaks and valleys

Uses topographical terms to symbolize the fluctuating nature of experiences.

weathering the storm

Highlights the resilience and ability to survive difficult periods.

overcoming obstacles and celebrating victories

Highlights the process of conquering challenges and enjoying successes.

surviving trials and tribulations

Emphasizes the difficult and challenging nature of the experiences.

FAQs

How can I use "through ups and downs" in a sentence?

You can use "through ups and downs" to describe a situation, relationship, or experience that has had both positive and negative moments. For example, "We've been "through ups and downs" in our marriage, but our love remains strong."

What's a good alternative to saying "through ups and downs"?

Alternatives include "experiencing highs and lows", "navigating challenges and triumphs", or "living through thick and thin", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "through ups and downs" formal or informal language?

"Through ups and downs" is considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in general conversation or writing than in highly technical or academic discourse.

What does it mean to go "through ups and downs"?

Going "through ups and downs" means experiencing a mix of positive and negative events, successes and failures, or good times and bad times, usually over a significant period. It implies resilience and the ability to cope with fluctuating circumstances.